NFL salary cap set at $133 million in 2014

The NFL announced Friday the league’s 2014 salary cap will be set at $133 million. It’s an increase of $10 million from 2013 and about $7 million more than the initial 2014 projection of $126.3 million.

Multiple reports had recently placed this season’s number at about $130 million. The cap is expected to reach $150 million in the next few years.

The Texans entered the week with a cap number of about $125 million. The team is not expected to be a major player in the initial wave of free agency, which begins March 11. But the Texans could lose several key starters (defensive end Antonio Smith, left guard Wade Smith, running back Ben Tate, nose tackle Earl Mitchell, linebacker Joe Mays) from their underperforming 2-14 squad in 2013 and face an impending decision about the uncertain future of quarterback Matt Schaub, who lost his starting job last season and is set to make $14.1 million this year.

Texans general manager Rick Smith said last week he doesn’t expect the organization to use its franchise tag this season.